Fantasy Premier League

Who to captain in GW38? What the experts say

By The Scout 21 May 2021
Patrick Bamford, Leeds

Play it safe or go for a differential? The Scout's panel reveal their FPL armband picks

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The Scout's panel of experts give their verdicts on who managers should captain ahead of the Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 38 deadline of 14:30 BST on Sunday 23 May.

Ben Crabtree (@FC_CrabDogg)

I'm on Harry Kane (£11.9m) at the moment, but I think Gameweek 38 requires something more creative. I've talked up Raphinha (£5.5m) over the last few weeks, so I may put my money where my mouth is.

Geoff Dance (@GeoffreyDance)

While many will look to differentials in Gameweek 38, Mohamed Salah (£12.8m) is the best captain after attacking returns in three straight home appearances and six of his last seven starts.

Differentials are great, but you don't have to give them the armband.

Sam Bonfield (@FPLFamily)

Now could be the perfect time for a differential captain, with Patrick Bamford (£6.5m) an interesting option in Leeds United’s first Premier League home match with fans for 17 years.

However, with UEFA Champions League qualification and the Golden Boot in the balance, Salah seems the most sensible option.

Utkarsh Dalmia (@zophar666)

Liverpool and Leeds players appeal, with Salah and Bamford the top candidates. Only West Bromwich Albion have conceded more goals than Crystal Palace over the last six Gameweeks, by 14 to 12.

Lee Bonfield (@FPLFamily)

Although Palace have found some offensive form, they're still conceding a lot of goals. If coming up against a collectively motivated Liverpool wasn't tough enough, they'll also face Salah, who'll again have the Golden Boot in his sights.

Neal Thurman (@nealjthurman)

As much as I'd like to be creative with this pick, Salah will play, has a good match-up and could win another Golden Boot with a big performance.

Motivation, talent, opportunity and a favourable fixture is about as much as you can hope for on the final day.

Ben McNair (@drbenmcnair)

Salah is the best choice for managers looking to protect a lead or hold their rank.

If you need to close a double-digit points gap in a mini-league, then a differential is a must. Sadio Mane (£11.7m) and Trent Alexander Arnold (£7.7m) are good options, as are Raphinha, Chris Wood (£6.5m), Michail Antonio (£6.6m) and Kelechi Iheanacho (£6.2m).

Paul Gee (@FPLPaulGee)

It’s all about whether you are chasing or looking to maintain a lead in your mini-league.

To maintain, the obvious and sensible answer is Salah. To chase, pinpoint someone in form who your mini-league leader doesn’t own. 

Also in this series

Part 1: GW38 Captains: Salah and Mane have motivation to excel
Part 2: Who to captain in GW38? What the experts say
Part 4: GW38 Kings to watch: Iheanacho to continue home streak
Part 5: GW38 Differentials: Benrahma can continue strong form
Part 6: Scout Selection: Harrison can reward final-day backers

Remember, the Gameweek 38 deadline is 14:30 BST on Sunday 23 May.

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